When summer hits in southeast Louisiana, the heat and humidity can be brutal — not just for people, but for your plants too. That’s why it’s important to choose sun-loving, drought-tolerant plants that can handle our hot, sticky climate without constant care. Whether you’re in Tangipahoa Parish, St. Tammany, Baton Rouge, New Orleans, or beyond, these hardy landscape picks will keep your yard looking lush all summer long.

1. Muhly Grass (Muhlenbergia capillaris)

• Why We Love It: This ornamental grass explodes with pink, airy plumes in late summer to fall. It’s low maintenance, drought-tolerant, and thrives in full sun.

• Bonus: Attracts pollinators and looks amazing planted in groups.

2. Flax Lily (Dianella tasmanica ‘Variegata’)

• Why We Love It: With its striped leaves and delicate blue flowers, Flax Lily adds texture and color year-round. It’s perfect for borders and pathways.

• Perk: Tolerates heat, humidity, and even some drought once established.

3. Drift Roses

• Why We Love Them: These compact roses bloom from spring through fall and are tough enough for Louisiana summers. They’re great for sunny beds, containers, or curb appeal.

• Pro Tip: Choose from shades like coral, pink, white, or red for a bold pop of color.

4. Sweet Olive (Osmanthus fragrans)

• Why We Love It: This evergreen shrub fills your yard with a sweet, jasmine-like scent in summer and fall. It thrives in full sun to part shade and tolerates heat well.

• Use It For: Privacy hedges or accent planting near patios and entryways.

5. Japanese Yew ‘Pringles’ (Podocarpus macrophyllus)

• Why We Love It: A clean, manicured evergreen that handles heat and full sun without stress. It’s perfect for foundation plantings or sculptural shapes.

• Landscape Tip: Minimal maintenance and great for formal designs.

6. Camellia Sasanqua (‘Shi Shi Gashira’)

• Why We Love It: Fall and winter blooms with glossy green foliage year-round. These hardy shrubs prefer part shade but can tolerate morning sun.

• Heat Tolerance: Once established, they handle southern summers well.

7. Blue Rug Juniper

• Why We Love It: This trailing groundcover loves full sun, needs very little water, and controls erosion on slopes or retaining walls.

• Bonus: Great alternative to turf in hot, dry spots.

Tips for Summer Landscaping Success in South Louisiana

• Mulch generously to retain moisture and reduce weeds.

• Water deeply but less frequently to encourage drought resistance.

• Choose native or adapted plants that are proven performers in zones 9a and 9b.

Let Year Round Services Help You Plant Smart This Summer

At Year Round Services, we specialize in creating sustainable, heat-hardy landscapes that thrive in our Louisiana climate. Whether you’re in Hammond, Mandeville, Covington, Baton Rouge, or New Orleans, our team is ready to help you pick and plant the best varieties for your yard.

📍 Serving Tangipahoa, St. Tammany, Baton Rouge, and Greater New Orleans
📞 Contact us today for a landscaping consultation or summer refresh!